UK-first life science substructure design reduces cost, speeds up delivery and lowers carbon
The Oxford Science Park, owned by Magdalen College Oxford, is expanding with The Daubeny Project – three new high-spec laboratory buildings – and Helena Russell from New Civil Engineer recently met the Mace team behind it to find out what makes its substructure so special.
The article, published in its April issue, highlights how the project uses the first ever UK application of a ‘geostruct active raft’ to overcome complex challenges while achieving substantial benefits.
By engaging with SubTerra early during the bidding stages, Mace was able to bring significant benefits through design, which reduced the number of piles from 1,235 to just 128. The post-tensioned raft was slimmed down to 500mm and advanced 3D modelling cut the reinforcement requirements of the slab by 70%.
Construction time was thereby reduced by five weeks, enabling earlier tenant occupancy and rental income, costs were cut by £4M and embodied carbon was reduced by 3,000 tonnes of CO2e.
It underlines how The Daubeny Project sets a benchmark for future developments, showcasing the value of collaboration and advanced design techniques in delivering high-performing sustainable buildings.
The article can be read in full here.